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Russia center stage and “Eurovisionites”
Published: 14 May, 2009, 19:50
I don’t like the whole Eurovision musical and media experience. I have never watched it; neither a single act, nor can I name a single song that has became well-known because of the Eurovision music contest. Having said this, I must say I like the concept of Eurovision – its sense of democracy and participation. It is these qualities that have captured the imagination of countries joining this so-called European event since the end of the Cold War.
Moscow hosts Eurovision this year. Judging by the banners and posters all over the Russian capital, it is obvious that Russia is very proud to be at the very center of the infamous and irreverent culture event. Being in the center is very important – for a few hours Russia will be the center of Europe. This is one of the reasons why so many strictly non-European countries have embraced Eurovision. They may not be accepted as Europeans in most or any ways, but during the contest everyone is European in one sense or another.
Not everyone is pleased with this.
Traditional Europe has watched “up-start” countries such as Serbia, Ukraine, and Russia usurp the Eurovision mantle. This has created some resentment and a whole lot of competition. This is good for all involved – particularly its organizers. Traditional Europe is still grappling with the disturbing possibility that their poorer bothers and sisters in the East can outdo them at their own game. Instead of internalizing this concept, many have turned to conspiracy theories explaining how invisible hands manipulate the context to the disadvantage of real Europeans. No one really takes these conspiracies seriously, though it does add to all the hype and fun.
Interestingly, we see how traditional Europe is learning from the newcomers. In this year’s event, countries like Norway are using eastern beats and styles to sway voters. Britain too has gotten into the act and upped the ante – its entry is titled “It’s my Time” by musical genius Andrew Lloyd Webber. In addition, France’s song will be performed by media giant Patricia Kaas. The good news is that the complacency of traditional Europeans has come to an end. They have been forced to expand their appeal. This is as it should be. We don’t need to become more European, the Europeans should learn and accept the rest of us have our own ways, thoughts, hopes, and traditions.
The democratic element of Eurovision is important to consider. Just about every country in the world has its own issues and problems when it comes to practicing democracy. This is particularly true in many of the countries in the post-Soviet space and in countries that once were part of the Soviet bloc in Eastern Europe. Eurovision does not elect politicians or parliaments, but the exercise of voting for a song is good practice for countries struggling with democracy. And the fact that viewers and voters now think in terms of creating coalitions with our countries to determine the winner of the contest is even better – it promotes compromises and captures perfectly the saying “politics is the art of the possible.”
I hate the acts, the music, the volume, the camp, and the profound stupidity that surrounds Eurovision. But I do like the fact that for a few hours everyone watching will be “Eurovisionites” – all equal. We all can be silly in equal measure – this is an odd sense of progress, but if it works, why not?
The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of RT.
